More time for flooded farmers to access assistance

25 February 2026

Primary producers impacted by the North and Far North Tropical Low in early 2025 now have an additional six months to apply for Disaster Recovery Grants up to $75,000.

The extension allows producers in 10 local government areas to access the grants up until 14 August 2026, with eligible LGAs including Burdekin, Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Charters Towers, Flinders, Hinchinbrook, Palm Island, Tablelands, Townsville, and Yarrabah.

Disaster Recovery Grants are provided by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), 

Farmers can be use the funding to cover the costs of clean-up and recovery activities, including:

  • Purchasing replacement equipment and materials
  • Replanting crops and replacing deceased livestock
  • Repairing or replacing fencing, buildings and infrastructure
  • Disposing damaged goods 
  • Covering additional labour costs

Over the past 12 months primary producers across the north and Far North have been affected by multiple disaster events that have severely impacted crops, stock, infrastructure and income. 

Extending the deadline for Disaster Recovery Grants acknowledges the enormous challenges producers in the region continue to face, and will help provide confidence to undertake further needed recovery works.

Disaster loans for producers affected by last year's North and Far North Tropical Low remain open too, with loans up to $250,000 available till the end of year.

Primary producers can check their eligibility and apply for grants and loans by via the QRIDA website or by calling 1800 623 946.

For producers also eager to future-proof their operations against severe weather, Department of Primary Industries (DPI) industry recovery and resilience officers (IRRO) are offering services to develop disaster mitigation strategies and farm resilience plans.

Consultations can be provided face to face or over the phone, and can include advice on accessing financial or mental health support.

This is another disaster recovery initiative backed by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the DRFA.

To request the help of a DPI IRRO, phone 13 25 23 or visit www.dpi.qld.gov.au.